Foster Falls, Virginia
The Historic Heart of New River Trail State Park
Welcome to Foster Falls
Foster Falls is one of the most complete stops along the New River Trail, and often the first place visitors point to when asked where to begin.
In a single location, you can find trail access, river recreation, camping, bicycle and boat rentals, visitor services, and overnight lodging — all set within a historic community once built around an iron furnace and its surrounding industrial village. Few other points along the trail bring together this much variety in one place.
Whether you're arriving for a short ride, a weekend of camping, or a stay at the restored inn, Foster Falls works equally well as a destination on its own or as a base for exploring the rest of New River Trail State Park Photo Credit: VA State Park Service.
Foster Falls at a Glance
Location
Foster Falls, within New River Trail State Park, southwest Virginia
Primary address
116 Orphanage Drive, Max Meadows, Virginia
Best known for
Trail access, river recreation, camping, mountain biking, and the historic ironworks village
Recommended visit
A half day for the historic village and trail, or a full weekend with camping or a stay at the Inn
Best seasons
Spring through fall, with camping and rentals typically operating seasonally
Best for
Cyclists, paddlers, anglers, campers, mountain bikers, and history-minded travelers
Why Visit Foster Falls?
The main appeal of Foster Falls is convenience. Rather than choosing between a trail ride, a river outing, a camping trip, or a history stop, visitors can experience all of these major themes in one location.
That combination makes Foster Falls especially useful for groups with different interests, for a first visit to the trail, or for anyone planning a longer stay who wants a single, well-equipped home base along the New River.
The History of Foster Falls
Foster Falls grew up around an iron furnace built in 1881, which drew a railroad station and an entire industrial village to the site through the 1890s.
The furnace ceased operation in 1914. In 1919, the former hotel building was converted into a school, and later served as an orphanage until it closed in 1962.
Today, a 16-acre historic district at Foster Falls is listed on both the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places, preserving the site's connection to Southwest Virginia's iron industry and the community that once surrounded it.
Best Things to Do at Foster Falls
Video credit: Virginia State Parks
Plan Your Time at Foster Falls
See the Plan Your Visit page for a full trip-planning checklist.
Start with a short ride or walk on the New River Trail, pause at the historic village for a look at the old ironworks site, then relax with a picnic near the river before heading out.
9:00 a.m. — Arrive and pick up a rental bike or boat.
9:30 a.m. — Ride the trail toward Shot Tower or Austinville.
12:00 p.m. — Picnic beside the river.
1:00 p.m. — Walk the historic village self-guided route.
2:30 p.m. — Fish or paddle the New River.
4:30 p.m. — Wind down at the amphitheater before departing.
Day One: check in at Millrace Campground or the Inn at Foster Falls, ride the trail, and explore the historic village.
Day Two: ride the Hoover Mountain Bike Area trails in the morning, then fish or paddle the New River before departing.
Nearby Attractions
Shot Tower Historical State Park
A historic shot tower and trail access point a short ride or drive from Foster Falls.
Draper
A small trailside community along the New River Trail corridor.
Claytor Lake State Park
A nearby lake park offering swimming, boating, and additional camping options.
Wytheville
A regional town with additional dining, lodging, and services.
Pulaski
A nearby town with restaurants, shops, and services close to the trail.
Plan ahead: rental hours, camping reservations, and Inn availability change seasonally. Confirm current details directly before your visit and be sure to check the Virginia State Park Website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan a Trip to Foster Falls
Use the trip-planning page for itineraries and a packing checklist, or check the trail guide for maps and mileage.